Autism Safety Measures Strengthen in Volusia County, Fla.
Autism Safety Measures Strengthen in Volusia County, Fla.

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A potentially life-saving device that can help track children with autism and prevent them from wandering off is now in the hands of several families in Volusia County.

Thanks to a partnership with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and the organization AngelSense, these families are gaining an additional layer of safety after a string of tragic incidents raised awareness of the dangers children with autism often face.

Wandering, also known as elopement, is a common concern among children with autism. Many families have faced heart-stopping moments when their child disappeared without warning.

“He’s had issues at school where he eloped, he ran away. We didn’t get very far, but we did get away,” said Leeann Krisciunas, a parent of a child with autism.

“It’s something very hard when they can’t socialize and communicate with you the way any other child can,” said Maria Ramirez, another parent of a child with autism.

The issue of wandering has sparked growing efforts to protect vulnerable children. One organization making a difference is AngelSense, which provides technology designed to track children with autism and alert caregivers when they stray into unfamiliar areas.

“We’re glad they’re here; we’re glad they’re partnering with us,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood. “I think it’s so important for us to protect autistic children.”

Through their collaboration, five families in Volusia County received GPS tracking devices donated by AngelSense. Each family has a child with special needs. The devices are designed to help parents monitor their child’s movements in real time, ensuring they stay safe.

“So when you wear the devices, anywhere from about four minutes, it’ll automatically create a geofence and alert as many caregivers as you want like, ‘Jennifer is in an unknown location,'” said Robert Torgusen, regional vice president of AngelSense. “It’ll send a push notification to your phone.”

The GPS trackers allow parents to follow their child’s steps and receive alerts if their child deviates from their usual routine. For example, if a child misses their bus or strays from their expected location, parents are immediately notified.

In addition to tracking, the devices include a voice feature that enables parents to communicate with their child or with anyone nearby. This feature can be crucial in situations where quick intervention is needed.

The devices can be worn in a variety of ways to suit the child’s comfort, such as on a belt, as a wristband, or clipped onto clothing.

“[My son] is quick to run; he’s quick to move,” Ramirez said. “So with the device, we are definitely looking forward to it, especially in public or in school.”

“[My son’s] teacher can be included so that she can find him just as quickly as I can find being added to the device for the notification, so I’m very thankful that if there is an issue again, we can find him quickly,” Krisciunas said.

The AngelSense partnership is one of the latest measures the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office has taken to improve safety for children with autism. Tragically, two children with autism lost their lives in Volusia County last year after wandering away from their homes. In both cases, the children were later found in bodies of water—one in Ormond Beach and the other in Deltona.

These heartbreaking incidents have underscored the importance of vigilance and community involvement. Sheriff Chitwood emphasized the collective responsibility to prevent such tragedies.

“I think what you’re seeing is everybody realizes there’s an issue here, and we all need to come together to make sure just what these parents said about security,” Chitwood said.

For families navigating the challenges of autism, tools like AngelSense offer not only safety but also peace of mind. The ability to track children with autism and respond quickly in emergencies can make all the difference, helping parents feel more secure as they go about their daily lives.

Discover Expert ABA Therapy Services in Florida

At Behavioral Intervention for Autism, we’re dedicated to helping individuals with autism thrive. Our personalized ABA therapy programs empower clients by building essential skills and fostering independence in everyday life. We believe in creating meaningful change through evidence-based strategies and compassionate care. Located in Florida, our team of experienced professionals is ready to support your family on this journey. Let us provide the tools and guidance needed for long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about our exceptional ABA therapy in Florida and take the first step toward a brighter future.

Read more
0
how to choose autism services in florida
How to Choose Autism Services in Florida

Navigating autism services in Florida requires a clear understanding of the available options and their significance, empowering individuals and families to make informed decisions.

Understanding the Importance of Autism Services

Autism services play a critical role in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in reaching their full potential. These services encompass a range of interventions and therapies designed to address the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. By providing tailored support and guidance, autism services aim to enhance communication skills, mitigate sensory sensitivities, improve social interactions, and promote independence.

Types of Autism Services

Exploring autism services reveals various interventions that support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In Florida, individuals with ASD can benefit from tailored services to meet their unique needs. Three key types of autism services commonly utilized in the state are behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy, also known as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), is a widely recognized and evidence-based approach for individuals with autism. This therapy focuses on modifying behaviors and teaching new skills through positive reinforcement and structured interventions. Behavioral therapy aims to improve social interactions, communication skills, and adaptive behaviors in individuals with ASD.

One essential aspect of behavioral therapy is the individualized treatment plans that are tailored to the specific needs and strengths of each person. These plans generally consist of deconstructing intricate skills into manageable steps to enhance learning and advancement.

Type of Therapy

Duration

Frequency

Behavioral Therapy

Varies

Multiple sessions per week

Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and language therapy is another crucial service for individuals with autism, especially for those experiencing challenges in communication and social interaction. Speech therapists work with individuals to improve their verbal and nonverbal communication skills, such as speech clarity, vocabulary development, and listening comprehension.

In Florida, speech and language therapy for individuals with autism often involves a combination of structured exercises, play-based activities, and assistive communication devices to enhance communication abilities. The goal of speech therapy is to help individuals effectively express their thoughts, feelings, and needs, thus improving their overall quality of life.

Type of Therapy

Duration

Frequency

Speech and Language Therapy

30-60 minutes per session

1-3 sessions per week

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy plays a significant role in supporting individuals with autism in developing essential life skills and enhancing their independence in daily activities. Occupational therapists work with individuals to improve fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care routines, and social participation.

In Florida, occupational therapy services for individuals with autism may involve sensory integration techniques, adaptive equipment recommendations, and environmental modifications to create a supportive and conducive environment for skill development. Occupational therapy aims to empower individuals with autism to participate effectively in various activities and routines.

Type of Therapy

Duration

Frequency

Occupational Therapy

30-60 minutes per session

1-2 sessions per week

how to choose autism services in florida

Choosing the Right Autism Services

Selecting autism services in Florida requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure optimal support.

Focus on three key aspects: assessing individual needs, researching providers, and evaluating insurance coverage.

Assessing Individual Needs

Before embarking on the search for autism services, it is essential to conduct a thorough assessment of the individual’s specific needs and requirements. Each individual with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is unique, and their treatment plan should be tailored to address their specific challenges and strengths. Consider the following factors when assessing individual needs:

  • Communication abilities
  • Behavioral patterns
  • Sensory sensitivities
  • Cognitive skills
  • Social interaction challenges

Understanding the individual’s needs comprehensively helps identify the most beneficial and effective services and interventions for them.

Researching Providers

Finding the right autism service provider is a critical step in the decision-making process. Conduct thorough research to identify reputable and experienced providers who offer services tailored to the individual’s needs. Consider the following aspects when researching providers:

  • Qualifications and certifications
  • Specialization in autism spectrum disorders
  • Experience working with individuals of different ages
  • Range of services offered
  • Success stories and outcomes

Delving into the background and expertise of potential service providers helps you make an informed decision that aligns with the individual’s unique needs and goals.

Considering Insurance Coverage

Another crucial factor to consider when choosing autism services in Florida is insurance coverage. Insurance plans may vary in terms of coverage for autism-related services, including behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. Before selecting a provider, it is important to:

  • Verify coverage for autism services
  • Understand copayments and deductibles
  • Inquire about pre-authorization requirements
  • Explore in-network providers for cost-effective options
  • Clarify any exclusions or limitations

Reviewing insurance coverage options helps ensure that selected services are financially feasible and accessible. Prioritizing individual needs, researching providers, and considering insurance coverage enables informed decisions when choosing autism services in Florida. Tailoring services to meet the specific needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder can lead to positive outcomes and an enhanced quality of life.

Evaluating Service Quality

Selecting autism services in Florida requires careful assessment of service providers to ensure effective support for individuals with autism.

Here are key factors to consider when evaluating service quality:

Licensing and Credentials

Ensuring that autism service providers in Florida hold the necessary licensing and credentials is essential for guaranteeing the legitimacy and competence of the services offered. Parents and caregivers should inquire about the following qualifications:

Qualification

Description

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

A professional trained in behavior analysis who meets the certification standards set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

A licensed professional specializing in diagnosing and treating communication and speech disorders.

Licensed Occupational Therapist (OT)

A licensed practitioner who helps individuals develop or regain skills for daily living through occupational therapy.

Verifying that service providers possess these credentials ensures that they have undergone the necessary training and meet the professional standards required to deliver quality autism services.

Professional Experience

The level of experience that service providers have in working with individuals on the autism spectrum is a critical factor in evaluating service quality. Parents and caregivers should inquire about the following aspects of a provider’s professional experience:

Experience

Details

Years in Practice

The length of time the provider has been offering autism services.

Specialization in Autism

Specific training or experience in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Success Stories

Examples of positive outcomes and progress achieved with previous clients.

Providers with a wealth of experience and a specialization in autism are better equipped to understand the unique needs of individuals with ASD and tailor their services effectively.

how to choose autism services in florida

Client Testimonials and Reviews

Client testimonials and reviews offer valuable insights into the quality of autism services provided. Parents and caregivers should seek feedback from other families who have utilized the services and consider the following factors:

Feedback Aspect

Considerations

Effectiveness of Services

Positive outcomes and improvements observed in individuals with autism.

Communication and Support

The level of communication, collaboration, and support provided by the service provider.

Overall Satisfaction

The general satisfaction level expressed by clients in their testimonials or reviews.

Gathering feedback from other families can provide reassurance and valuable information when making decisions about autism services in Florida.

Evaluating licensing and credentials, professional experience, and client testimonials enables parents and caregivers to make informed decisions when selecting autism services tailored to the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Choosing the right autism services in Florida can significantly impact a child’s development and well-being. It’s essential to research various options and consider what aligns best with your family’s needs. We offer comprehensive ABA programs in Florida that are tailored to each individual’s strengths and challenges. 

Our team at Behavioral Intervention for Autism prioritizes high-quality, evidence-based therapies, ensuring that each program is designed to foster growth and support. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to explore how our services can make a difference for your loved one. Your journey toward effective autism services begins with a conversation, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Read more
0